What Role Do Histones Play in Chromatin Condensation?
Histones are proteins that serve as the primary packaging elements for DNA. They form the core around which DNA winds to create nucleosomes. Histone modifications, such as methylation, acetylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination, play a critical role in regulating chromatin structure and function. These modifications can either promote or inhibit chromatin condensation and, consequently, gene expression.